Tinubu Seeks OECD Partnership To Deepen Economic Reforms

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for stronger collaboration with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to support Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms and improve investor confidence.

The OECD, in turn, pledged to provide robust economic and investment data to aid policy planning, strengthen transparency, and support reform implementation in Nigeria.

The discussions took place in Kigali, Rwanda, on Friday, on the sidelines of the Africa CEO Forum 2026.

According to a statement by Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the meeting focused on potential collaboration in public finance reforms, investment facilitation, trade competitiveness, MSME development, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and solid minerals.

OECD Deputy Secretary-General, Frantisek Ruzicka, commended the Tinubu administration’s reform agenda, describing it as bold and reform-driven.

“We support and understand the pillars of your reforms. I think other leaders should learn from you, especially in improving public finances and working conditions. OECD can be partners with you on the ongoing reforms, particularly the priorities,” Ruzicka said.

He added that the organisation was ready to work with Nigeria to strengthen policy frameworks, improve investor perception of Africa, and attract long-term capital.

President Tinubu said Africa must work to change global perceptions about its investment climate, stressing the importance of accountability, discipline, and policy consistency.

“Africa’s risk perception must change. Africa must be disciplined and accountable over various projects. We welcome a structured cooperation between Nigeria and OECD in support of ongoing reforms in Nigeria,” he said.

The President also defended key policy decisions of his administration, including the removal of fuel subsidies and unification of the foreign exchange market, describing them as difficult but necessary reforms.

“The removal of the subsidy was necessary. Yes. There was a fight back. Easy access is hard to give up. Even the multiple exchange rates had to go. I have come to serve my people, not to benefit a few,” Tinubu said.

He stressed the need for Africa to move beyond raw material exports and focus on value-chain development in sectors such as agriculture and pharmaceuticals to drive industrialisation and job creation.

The meeting also explored opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), including regional trade integration, support for small businesses, and stronger participation of African firms in global value chains.

Key areas identified for cooperation include pharmaceuticals, MSMEs, agriculture, solid minerals, investment promotion, and tax-to-GDP reforms.

The OECD also discussed investment screening frameworks and policy mechanisms aimed at improving investor decision-making and access to financing.

Tinubu reiterated that transparency, market confidence, and stable reforms remain central to Nigeria’s economic strategy.